Inverted T Main Runner for Forming Support Structures for False Ceilings

ABSTRACT

For forming support structures for false ceilings, an inverted T main runner includes a central web extending from an upper tube and terminating in two horizontal flanges, wherein each end of the web has two parallel longitudinal cuts defining an elastically deformable band terminating in a depressed seat projecting from the web surface, such seat being provided with a tooth facing the web. A substantially rectangular tab for engagement in the depressed seat of the adjacent main runner is also provided, such tab (having a cut engagable by the tooth of the adjacent main runner when the tab is inserted into the depressed seat.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an inverted T main runner for forming support structures for false ceilings.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Structural support elements for false ceilings are known consisting of a plurality of longitudinally coupled-together main runners (of about 3 meters in length), which extend mutually parallel and are connected together by a plurality of cross runners inserted at their end into suitable vertical slotted holes provided in the main runner webs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The object of the invention is to provide an inverted T main runner which can be easily coupled to the adjacent main runner while at the same time enabling simple disengagement without the use of special equipment.

This object is attained according to the invention by an inverted T main runner for forming support structures, as defined hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A preferred embodiment of the present invention is further clarified hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the end of a main runner according to the invention, seen from one side,

FIG. 2 shows it in perspective view from the other side,

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of two mutually engaged main runners,

FIG. 4 is a lateral view of two main runners mutually disengaged, and

FIG. 5 is a longitudinal section therethrough in the engaged configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

As can be seen from the figures, the inverted T main runner according to the invention is obtained by bending and shaping a metal strip to form a central web 4, which extends from an upper tube 6 and terminates lowerly in two horizontal flanges 8.

Each end of the central web of the profile comprises two parallel longitudinal cuts defining an elastically deformable band 12 containing a curved portion 14 terminating in a depressed seat 16 with an appendix 18 facing outwards and comprising a tooth 20 facing the web.

In particular, the curved portion 14 projects from one side of the web 4 whereas the depressed seat 16 projects from the other side of the web.

Each end of the web extends into a substantially rectangular tab 22 having the same height as the depressed seat 16, and projecting from the web 4 from that side from which the curved portion 14 projects. The tab 22 comprises a dished portion 24 and a cut 26 the height dimensions of which are suitable for its engagement by the tooth 20.

To engage the T-shaped main runners the procedure is as follows.

Two T-shaped main runners are abutted at their ends and each tab 22 is inserted into the depressed seat 18 of the adjacent main runner while maintaining the dished portions 24 facing outwards such that the teeth 20 of each main runner become inserted into the cuts 26 of the other main runner, to ensure stability of the connection.

To disengage the profiles, the external surface of the curved portions 14 of the elastically deformable bands 12 are pressed with the fingers to cause disengagement of the teeth 20 from the cuts 26.

From the aforesaid it is clear that the inverted T main runner according to the invention can be engaged with and disengaged from the adjacent main runner in a simple and comfortable manner using only the hands. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. An inverted T main runner for forming support structures for false ceilings consisting of: a central web (4) extending from an upper tube (6) and terminating in two horizontal flanges (8), wherein each end of the central web comprises two parallel longitudinal cuts (10) defining an elastically deformable band (12) terminating in a depressed seat (16) projecting from a web surface, said seat being provided with a tooth (20) facing the central web, and further comprising a substantially rectangular tab (22) for engagement in the depressed seat (16) of an adjacent main runner, said substantially rectangular tab (22) comprising a cut (26) engagable by the tooth of the adjacent main runner when said tab (22) is inserted into said depressed seat (16).
 2. The main runner as claimed in claim 1, wherein the elastically deformable band (12) comprises a curved portion (14).
 3. The main runner as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tab (22) comprises a dished portion (24). 